"One Hand Many Dreams" Documentary Film

Artisanal rural women miners' challenge is an anathema that requires individual, corporate and international intervention. The Executive Director of the Initiative for Women Miners in Africa, Dr. Comfort Asokoro Ogaji has worked in over 200 mine sites in Nigeria and exposed to the hardship faced by women in the communities where mining takes place. She is determined to drive change and ameliorate the challenges by providing leadership and direction on how the root causes of the challenge can be addressed.

The creative team by director Paul-Esupofo Oriade and producers are deeply connected to Comfort's story, drawing inspiration from real-life experiences and personal encounters with individuals facing similar challenges. With a diverse team of filmmakers, we bring a unique perspective and sensitivity to the complexities of Comfort's journey, ensuring an authentic and compelling portrayal of her experiences and drive change in the process across the spectrum of stakeholders in the solid minerals sector in Africa.

"One Hand, Many Dreams" follows the journey of Comfort Ezekeil who as a means of livelihood, breaks and hauls Felspar minerals through manual labor with other women and girls at a mine in a rural community in Nigeria.

Estimated 100 women and girls are usually found working manually around typical mine sites. These are often referred to as illegal miners by the government because of their inability to obtain licenses for the mine sites they work.

Comfort, an underpaid laborer, indigent, had lost hope when an accident claimed the lives of her other colleagues, badly injured, narrowly escaped death, spent a year at the hospital, got her right hand amputated with a deformed leg. Comfort had lost hope, but fortunately having returned to a remote location unknown, she found help and returned to school. The fellow students and school management were very helpful and accommodated her disabilities.

Determined to overcome adversity, she courageously navigates the challenges of disability, societal stigma, and economic hardship. As she strives to rebuild her life, Comfort discovers newfound strength and resilience within herself, becoming a beacon of hope for other women miners in her community.

Determined to honour the memory of those she had lost, Comfort embarked on an academic journey. Against all odds, she pursued a degree in Mining Engineering, driven by a desire to transform the industry from within. Armed with knowledge and fueled by a passion for change, Comfort emerged as a fierce advocate for women safety and empowerment in the mines.

Through her tireless efforts, Comfort worked to eradicate child labour and empower women in mining, providing them with the tools and resources they needed to succeed. Her leadership and vision inspired others to follow in her footsteps, sparking a revolution in an industry long plagued by exploitation and injustice.

The Documentary Film

This documentary explores themes of resilience, economic empowerment, disability rights, and gender justice within the context of Nigeria's Solid Minerals sector and industry. By highlighting Comfort's story, the film sheds light on the struggles faced by women miners in mining communities, poverty indicators of these category of individuals, economic challenges and societal barriers confronting the women. Moreover, it underscores the importance of inclusivity and empowerment in fostering sustainable development and social justice.

"One Hand, Many Dreams" aims to not only raise awareness about the challenges faced by women miners in Africa but also to spark conversations about inclusivity, diversity, and resilience in the face of adversity. Through Comfort's story, we hope to inspire governments at all levels, off takers of industrial minerals in Africa, and relevant stakeholders to re-examine their mode of operations, responsibilities and obligations regarding responsible solid minerals sourcing in Africa and advocate for a more equitable society.

Kogi Women Miners Welfare Association IWoMA Award Event

Director/Producer; Paul-Esupofo Oriade

Director/Producer; Dr Comfort Asokoro - Ogaji
Cinematographer; Kunle Adepoju
Confirmed Advisor; James Idih Esq.
Confirmed Advisor; Dr Comfort Asokoro - Ogaji
Confirmed Advisor; Dr Tonipre Apiribo
Editor; Olufemi Abraham